‘Amalanga Awafani’ welcomes Sweet Guluva and Thandeka Nodada

Posted on September 11, 2026
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PICTURE: INSTAGRAM/@GQSOUTHAFRICA

SABC 1 drama series Amalanga Awafani is welcoming two exciting new additions to its cast, with reality television star Sweet Guluva and actress Thandeka Nodada set to bring new characters and storylines to the popular show.

Also see: Siphesihle Vazi joins ‘Amalanga Awafani’ while Melusi Yeni reprises role

Sweet Guluva makes his acting debut

Sweet Guluva, whose real name is Akhonamathemba Zwane, is making his acting debut on the drama as Ngwenya, a firm but entertaining restaurant manager.

His first appearance is scheduled for Friday, 11 September 2026, marking an exciting new chapter for the former Big Brother Mzansi winner.

The reality star has built a strong following through television, music and social media, but acting has reportedly always been one of his interests.

A role close to his roots

Sweet Guluva’s casting is particularly significant because Amalanga Awafani is set in Nquthu, an area connected to his roots.

The opportunity allows him to explore acting while also bringing his personality and sense of humour to a scripted television production. Fans can expect to see a different side of the reality star as he takes on a character rather than appearing as himself.

Also see: ‘Amalanga Awafani’ welcomes new faces to the series

Thandeka Nodada joins the drama

Meanwhile, Thandeka Nodada, also known as Thandeka Malinga, is set to join the cast later this month. She will make her debut as Nandipha on 29 September 2026.

Nandipha is described as a sophisticated and influential businesswoman who enters Thembi’s life as a mentor. Her arrival is expected to introduce a fresh dynamic to the storyline.

2 New faces, different experiences

The casting brings together two performers with very different backgrounds.

While Sweet Guluva is making his major move into scripted television after establishing himself through reality TV, Nodada brings considerable acting experience to the production.

Their characters are expected to add new layers to the ongoing storylines while giving viewers fresh personalities to follow.

When to watch Amalanga Awafani

Amalanga Awafani airs Monday to Friday at 18:30 on SABC 1 and is also available on SABC Plus.

With Sweet Guluva stepping into his first acting role and Thandeka Nodada bringing a new character to the drama, viewers can expect plenty of new developments as both characters become part of the Amalanga Awafani universe.

Also see: Melusi Yeni part of new telenovela ‘Amalanga Awafani’

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